Bringing Back Earth-Friendly, High-Value Small Grains to the Highlands Region

More than 50 farmers and others interested in reviving heritage small grains in our region came together for a Grains Field Day on July 10, 2024, to connect, learn from experts, and experience the high-value small-grains production, from growing to milling, firsthand. Organized by the Foodshed Alliance, the event was made possible by a grant from the New Jersey Highlands Council Sustainable Agriculture Program, which is funding a three-year initiative to boost the local grain economy in the Highlands region through regenerative agriculture.

Held at Marksboro Mills in Frelinghuysen, the day included presentations on the Grains Program, River Valley Community Grains, and the beginnings of Marksboro Mills. Elizabeth Dyck, founder of the Organic Growers’ Research and Information-Sharing Network (OGRIN), shared insights from her five decades of organic farming and 15 years supporting grain producers in the Northeast. Participants toured the mill, witnessing how locally grown grains are transformed into high-quality products.

Afterwards, the group headed to Ruthie’s Farm across Route 94 to dive into the nitty-gritty of grain production, from field preparation to post-harvest techniques. Attendees then returned to Marksboro Mills to sample treats made by local artisans using diverse local grains, including rye chocolate chip cookies from Coots Kitchen, spelt bread by Four Fields Farm, Neapolitan pizza from A Slice of New Jersey, and cacao nib whole wheat sablé cookies by Kate Munning (get the recipe here).

The Foodshed Alliance’s Grains Program aims to revitalize local agriculture in New Jersey’s Highlands region by promoting regenerative practices and value-added grain production. Currently, many farms in the area rely on conventional methods that degrade soil and harm the environment with the use of chemical-based fertilizers and pesticides. The initiative seeks to change this by advocating for sustainable agriculture that benefits both farmers and the ecosystem.

Powered by the grant from the New Jersey Highlands Council, our sights are set on strengthening the local food economy through growing earth-friendly, high-value small grains. There are markets for a diverse array of crops, including modern and ancient/ heirloom wheat, einkorn, spelt, emmer, rye, hulless-oats, barley, amaranth, buckwheat, and flax. Additionally, value-added grain production offers opportunities for diversification and resilience, especially for small-scale farmers with limited land.

Through partnerships with organizations like River Valley Community Grains, Marksboro Mills and The Organic Growers’ Research and Information-Sharing Network (OGRIN), and fellow farmers, bakers, and chefs, the program provides training, resources, and support to farmers interested in transitioning to regenerative grain production. By facilitating access to land, equipment, and markets, the initiative aims to increase the number of farmers growing value-added crops and ultimately contribute to a more sustainable and vibrant local grain economy in the Highlands region.

The Foodshed Alliance is a nonprofit organization based in New Jersey, dedicated to advocating for sustainable agriculture and local food systems. Through education, advocacy, and community-building initiatives, we strive to build a resilient food system that supports the well-being of people, the planet, and the economy.